NY Senators stump, endorse in Senate fight (updated)

Sure, there’s that whole historic presidential election and the fight to increase majorities in the Senate and the House (especially in New York, where Democrats are vying to replace a number of retiring of Republican congressmen.)

But that hasn’t stopped New York’s senators from getting involved in the fight for the Senate majority, and more immediately, tomorrow’s primaries.

Sen. Chuck Schumer is campaigning with Dan Squadron, a former staffer and coauthor of Schumer’s book, “Positively American.”

Here they are at a Lower Eastside senior center earlier this afternoon.

Sen Hillary Clinton is weighing in on the 51st Senate general election race, endorsing Don Barber, who is challenging Republican Sen. James Seward.

“Don Barber is a farmer who knows how to protect our precious environment. He’s a businessman who knows how to revitalize the upstate economy. He’s running a vibrant, grassroots campaign and taking on the special interests that have blocked health care reform. I know Don Barber will put the interests of middle class, working families first. His voice is sorely needed in the New York State Senate. He has my full support.”

Though Barber’s race isn’t considered a top-tier race at the moment (52,431 Democrat to 77,801 Republican voter enrollment), Democrats have been impressed with the dairy farmer, construction company owner, and Caroline Town Supervisor’s campaign so far.

It isn’t clear whether Clinton will be campaigning for Barber. We’re waiting on a call back from the Barber campaign and will update accordingly.

Update: Barber spokesman Michael Blaine said that the campaign is working with Clinton’s office at the moment and if her schedule permits, she may campaign with Barber in the district. “But nothing is certain yet,” said Blaine.